For the special person in us all
“I am here to remind the species of the species,†says one of “The Boys Next Door†at the transformative climax of playwright Tom Griffin’s regional staple. This beautifully handled Actors Co-op revival of the 1986 dramedy about four mentally challenged men and their burned out supervisor reminds us of the pull of populist theater at its best.
Set in a New England group residence (well realized by Tim Farmer’s bipolar design), “Boys†pits trait-based comedy against painful realities, sporadically narrated by social worker Jack (Jeff Charlton). That Griffin’s wholehearted scenario -- Neil Simon aping Peter Nichols in “Joe Egg†mode -- registers without mockery signals his intent and the Co-op’s assurance.
Director Nan McNamara knowingly avoids schmaltz, quietly exploiting the thrust configurations of the newly modular Crossley Theatre. Barring inert act endings, technology is typically top-notch. Bill Kickbush’s lighting, A. Laura Brody’s costumes, Nick Omana’s sound, Lori Berg’s props and Diane Martinous’ hairstyles converge in unassuming verisimilitude.
The outstanding cast embraces the contrasting aspects with honest elan. Charlton’s caregiver, his goodwill and frustration at consistent odds, is ideal. As bureaucratic casualty Lucien, R.C. Ormond plays childlike to his fingertips, with profound results. Robbie Winston inhabits schizophrenic Barry, reaching unbearable pathos at the reunion with his father (David Atkinson, in for Jack Kandel). Scott Ward’s frenetic, depressive Arnold and the amorous, doughnut-tossing Norman of Brian Habicht bring character largess to potent life. Christi Marsico scores as Norman’s key-covetous crush. Greg Baldwin and Kelly Keaton expertly fill multiple roles.
Credit this engaging troupe for making us howl with laughter as we fight back tears of recognition; credit Griffin for locating “The Boys Next Door†in us all.
*
‘The Boys Next Door’
Where: Actors Co-op, Crossley Theatre, 1760 N. Gower St., Hollywood
When: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays
Ends: Dec. 11
Price: $23
Contact: (323) 462-8460
Running time: 2 hours, 10 minutes
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